List of Resources
Curated links and guides for practicing structural engineers and the public in California. Explore publications, research, and safety information from SEAOC and our partners.
For Structural Engineers
Professional Practice and Standards
SEAOC Publications and Products
Access SEAOC Blue Book, Seismic/Wind Design Manuals, and practice guidelines.
↗SEAOC Structural/Seismic Design Manual (2021 IBC series)
Design examples that illustrate seismic provisions and ASCE 7 requirements.
↗Vulnerable Buildings Fact Sheet — SEAOC 2025
Fact Sheet on Vulnerable Buildings.
↗SEAOC Seismic Design Tool
Interactive reference for seismic design parameters and resources for practice in California.
↗California Building Code (CBC) — 2025
Official CBC text hosted by ICC. Effective January 1, 2026.
↗California Building Standards Commission
Title 24 access, rulemaking, errata, and supplements for California codes.
↗CA License Lookup (BPELSG)
Verify California engineers, land surveyors, and geologists.
↗NCSEA Resources
National tools and references across technical topics and practice areas.
↗NCSEA Online Learning
Live and recorded webinars with continuing education certificates.
↗NCSEA SE GPT
AI-assisted search over trusted structural engineering resources.
Technical and Research
EERI Digital Library
Reports, proceedings, and Learning From Earthquakes resources.
↗Earthquake Spectra (EERI Journal)
Peer-reviewed research on earthquake engineering practice and policy.
↗PEER Reports
Free PDF reports on performance-based engineering and related topics.
↗USGS Earthquake Hazard and Fault Maps
Interactive hazard layers, fault maps, and recent earthquakes.
↗California EQ Zapp (CGS)
Check if a property lies within an earthquake hazard zone.
↗Applied Technology Council (ATC) Projects
Explore active research and development projects advancing seismic and structural safety.
↗Webinar: Embodied Carbon and Sustainable Structural Design
Presented by SEAOC Sustainable Design Committee. Covers embodied carbon concepts and practical strategies for structural engineers.
For the Public
Understanding Structural Engineering
What is a Structural Engineer?
A plain-language overview of how structural engineers protect life and property. Courtesy of SEAONC.
↗Verify a Licensed Engineer
Search California's licensing database before you hire.
↗Structural Engineering Terms
Definitions and terms commonly used in structural engineering. Courtesy of SEAONC.
Earthquake Safety and Preparedness
Great California ShakeOut
Join the statewide earthquake drill and learn Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
↗Cal OES Earthquake Preparedness
California-specific steps to prepare your home, family, and workplace.
↗Ready.gov — Earthquakes
Federal guidance with checklists and family plan templates.
↗California Seismic Hazards (Cal OES)
Learn about earthquake early warning and hazard programs in California.
↗EQ Zapp Hazard Zone Map
Find out if your property is in a fault or liquefaction zone.
Community and Education
SEAOC
Statewide community of structural engineers advancing safety and practice.
↗SEAONC
Northern California Member Organization.
↗SEAOSC
Southern California Member Organization.
↗SEAOCC
Central California Member Organization.
↗SEAOSD
San Diego Member Organization.
↗SEAOC Foundation
Scholarships, research support, and public education initiatives.
Need help finding a resource or connecting with a local engineer?
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